It is hard to believe that it is 2011 and we are already a month into the new year! I look back at all the growth and change we’ve experienced at The Healing Center. In the last year: Kath and Ann have retired; we have had amazing community events and successful fund raisers; our children’s programs almost doubled (The Healing Club alone is 20 children strong!); we began new programs for adults; and our dedicated staff, board, and volunteers zealously served our community.

At the beginning of each year, I like to envision my wishes for the New Year. I write them out and put them in an envelope and revisit them on December 31st. Most often my wishes and hopes, big or small, come to bear some fruit. In keeping with this tradition, I have begun a wish list for The Healing Center.

This year those hopes include: continued service to all who seek grief support; reaching out to schools to share the message that grief is natural and a part of all of our lives; training other service professionals and organizations on how to support grieving adults, children, and families; and a continued commitment from our supporters to strengthen our resources to meet the ongoing needs of the community.

Although I have been the Executive Director for the past four months, I know there are many of you that I have not had the opportunity to meet. An additional wish and intention for 2011 is that I will get to meet each and every one of you. Until then, know that I hold you in my heart as you walk your journey of health and healing.